Achilles tendinopathy

Achilles tendinopathy is pain and stiffness in the tendon at the back of the ankle, common in runners and often worse first thing in the morning or at the start of activity. It develops from overload rather than a single injury, and improves best when the tendon is loaded correctly.

The strongest evidence supports progressive strengthening — including heavy slow resistance and isometric exercises — to rebuild the tendon's capacity. In this guide we cover assessment and evidence-based loading protocols for Achilles tendinopathy — practical, staged guidance for clinicians and clear explanations so patients and runners understand why consistent, gradual loading is the key to lasting recovery.